Buffon’s Macaw

Ara ambiguus Central & South America • Rainforest Canopy

IUCN Status

Vulnerable

The Buffon’s Macaw (Ara ambiguus), also known as the Great Green Macaw, is one of the largest and most impressive macaws in the world. It features a striking all-green plumage with a subtle blue tint on the wings and tail, a massive black beak, and a bare white facial patch with fine black lines. Known for its gentle giant personality, intelligence, and powerful voice, Buffon’s Macaw is highly sought after by experienced keepers who can provide the enormous space and enrichment this species demands. It is closely related to the Military Macaw but is noticeably larger and greener.

General Description

Common Name	Buffon’s Macaw (Great Green Macaw)
Latin Name	Ara ambiguus
Family	Psittacidae • Macaws
Adult Size	85–95 cm (33–37 in), one of the largest macaws
Weight	1,100–1,700 g (2.4–3.7 lb)
Life Span	50–70+ years in captivity
Sexual Maturity	4–6 years
Clutch Size	2–3 eggs
Gender Difference	No reliable visual dimorphism. Males are slightly larger on average; DNA testing is required.
Natural Habitat	Humid lowland and foothill rainforests, especially areas with abundant almendro (Dipteryx) trees.
Origin / Range	Disjunct populations from eastern Honduras through Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, to western Colombia and Ecuador.
Care Level	Advanced • Requires very large aviary or flight room and experienced keeper

Ara ambiguus • Adult showing massive size and green plumage

ONE OF THE LARGEST MACAWS • GENTLE GIANT

Plumage & Features

Buffon’s Macaw is predominantly a rich, deep green with a slight olive tone. The wings and tail show a beautiful turquoise-blue wash, especially visible in flight. The forehead and crown often have a subtle blue tint. It has a large bare white facial patch with fine black lines, a massive black beak, and pale yellowish eyes in adults. Compared to the Military Macaw, Buffon’s is significantly larger, has a more uniform green colour, and lacks the bright red forehead patch.

There are two recognised subspecies: the nominate A. a. ambiguus (Central America) and A. a. guayaquilensis (Ecuador/Peru border), which is slightly smaller and paler. Juveniles have darker eyes and duller plumage.

Conservation Status: Vulnerable (IUCN Red List) — CITES Appendix I

Ara Genus

Central & South America

Large & Powerful